Protect Yourself from Fraud, Scams, and Financial Crime

Your guide to staying safe, recognizing threats, and protecting your accounts

Protect Yourself: Financial Crime Awareness

Fraudsters are constantly evolving their tactics to steal money and personal information. Understanding how scams work—and knowing what to do—can help you protect yourself and your accounts.  Staying informed and taking a few simple precautions can help safeguard your financial assets and personal information from fraud and crime. As your banking partner, we encourage you to report any suspicious account activity and work with us to protect your family and community from financial threats. Together, we can help prevent identity theft and support the safety of our customers.

Important reminders – First Federal Savings Bank will
  • Never request your Social Security number
  • Never ask for your password, PIN, or one-time verification codes
  • Never ask for your debit card number
  • Never ask you to send money or buy gift cards for any reason related to your account
  • Never ask you to download software or allow remote access to your device

How to Protect Yourself
  • Never share passwords, PINs, or one-time passcodes
  • Verify requests independently using a trusted phone number
  • Monitor accounts regularly for unusual activity
  • Enable alerts for transactions and login activity
  • Use strong, unique passwords and multi-factor authentication (MFA)
  • Avoid clicking links in unsolicited messages
  • Secure your mail and consider electronic statements

Learn More

What to do if You Suspect Fraud

1. Contact Your Bank Immediately

  • Call the number on the back of your debit card or the official website
  • Do not use contact information provided in suspicious messages

2. Secure Your Account

  • Change login credentials immediately
  • Review recent transactions
  • Place alerts or restrictions on your account if necessary

3. Report the Fraud

  • Report suspicious activity to your financial institution
  • File a report with the FTC (ReportFraud.ftc.gov and/or IdentityTheft.gov (for identity theft cases)

4. Monitor and Follow Up

  • Review account activity regularly
  • Check your credit report for suspicious changes
  • Follow any additional instructions provided by your bank

Common Types of Fraud and Scams

Phishing and Smishing

Fraudulent emails (phishing) or texts (smishing) designed to trick you into providing sensitive information.

Example:

A text claims your account is locked and asks you to click a link to “verify” your information.

Imposter Scams

Fraudsters pretend to be:

  • Bank employees
  • Government agencies (IRS, Social Security, Police)
  • Utility companies or tech support

Example:

A caller claims to be from your bank’s fraud department and asks for your online banking login or passcode.

Employment Scams

Fake job opportunities that request:

  • Application fees
  • Personal information
  • Mobile check deposits followed by fund withdrawals

Example:

A phone call offers a job without an interview if you make an upfront payment.

Romance Scams

Fraudsters build online relationships and request money over time.

Check Fraud and Mail Theft
  • Altered or forged checks
  • Stolen checks from mailboxes
  • Counterfeit check deposits

Account Takeover / Online Banking Fraud

Criminals gain access to your account using stolen credentials and initiate unauthorized transactions.

Common Red Flags of Fraud and Scams

Be cautious if you encounter any of the following warning signs:

  • “Act now or your account will be closed”
  • Threats involving law enforcement or IRS
  • Pressure to keep things secret

  • Gift cards, crypto, wire transfers
  • Requests to “fix” or “secure” accounts
  • Instructions to move your own money

  • Calls/texts/emails pretending to be trusted sources
  • Requests for passwords, passcodes, SSN

  • Guaranteed winnings, prizes, or unexpected inheritances
  • Job offers requiring upfront payments
  • Investment opportunities promising high returns with little risk

  • Misspelled email addresses
  • Fake login pages
  • Unexpected attachments

Stay Informed on the Latest Scams and Security Tips

Fraud tactics are constantly evolving—but staying informed is your best defense. Explore our latest articles for tips on protecting your accounts, recognizing scams, and keeping your information secure.

Explore Security Resources

We’re Here to Help

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Fraudsters succeed by creating urgency and fear.  Slow down, think it through, and verify before taking action.  If you suspect fraud or have questions, contact First Federal Savings Bank immediately.

Please call (812) 492-8200 or contact us via email at depositoperations@fbei.net.